Coatings aren’t new. Clear back to the year 3000 B.C., Egyptians were using varnishes and enamels made of beeswax, gelatin and clay to coat and protect certain belongings, such as homes and boats. The concept has come a long way in the 5,000 years since.
The concept of a protective coating is breathtaking in its simplicity. A waterproofing fluid is applied directly to the roofing structure. As it dries, it forms a solid layer of protection. The key to commercial roof coatings is their seamless nature.
As the coating is either rolled or sprayed on, it is in a fluid state. This fluidity allows the coating material to seep into cracks, crevices, or roofing imperfections. It also allows for application of the material across existing seams such as protrusions (think A/C vent), flashings and even prior roofing systems.
As the material dries, it becomes a single, monolithic layer of seamless protection encompassing your entire roofing structure.
Commercial Coating Options
Today’s commercial roof coatings are highly complex compositions. Tailored to improve waterproofing capabilities, the exact composition determines the type of coating and the most appropriate applications.
In commercial roofing specifically, the most common coatings are silicone-based and acrylic-based.
Silicone. Though each manufacturer has their own proprietary composition, silicone coatings are generally moisture-cure chemistries and tend to have a very high solids content. This means less is needed to do the job effectively.
Benefits of silicone coatings include:
- Resistant to UV degradation, due to strong O-H bonds within the resin structure.
- Resistant to fungal/mold growth due to inorganic nature.
- Highly resistant to ponding water, making them ideal for low-slope systems.
- Easy adherence to most substrates.
- Zero product lost to evaporation or shrinkage.
- Low VOC (volatile organic compounds), meeting both US and Canadian standards.
- Stable at a wide range of temperatures.
These characteristics make silicone coatings great for many commercial or industrial applications.
Acrylic. Acrylic coatings are generally thought of as the “original” commercial coating option. They are a great solution to restore and protect commercial roofs and are popular with sloped roofing structures and metal roofing, though they are serviceable with a wide array of substrates and low-slope structures as well.
Benefits of acrylic coatings include:
- Initial application is less expensive than other options.
- Durability comparable to other coating types.
- Highly reflective nature reduces heat to the roof, keeping the building
- Resistant to UV rays.
- Easy application reduces labor costs and eliminates business down time.
Commercial Roofing Restoration
When repairing a commercial roof no longer makes financial sense, whether due to condition, damage level or simple age, many building owners assume they need to replace the roof. That isn’t necessarily true. Depending on the condition of the roof, a coating may be applied to the existing system. This is known as a roof restoration.
A restoration offers many benefits.
Cost effective. A restoration is significantly less expensive than a full replacement.
Durable. Depending on the materials selected, a restoration can extend the life of your roof by a decade or more.
Energy efficient. Restorations can reflect up to 85% of solar heat away from the roofing surface. That translates into more comfortable buildings and cooling cost savings up to 50% annually.
Renewable. If the roof structure remains sound, restorations can be reapplied as needed. This not only extends the protection, but it also renews the warranty.
Watertight. As a seamless liquid applied system, roof restorations are watertight, protecting your building and business from the damage moisture can cause.
Are you ready to learn more about the benefits of a roof coating? Call us today at 908-319-5952 to schedule a consultation. We would love to sit down with you and show you the many ways coatings can benefit you and your business.